New signing Ricky Alvarez says he “turned down Arsenal to join the best club in the world: Inter.”

The Argentine had been very close to making his move to the Gunners this summer and also had a pre-contract agreement with Roma, but completed the transfer to San Siro and was presented to the media this afternoon.

“It is wonderful to be here, in the best club in the world,” said ‘Ricky Maravilla.'

“It's true Arsenal were interested in me, but I repeat, I chose Inter because they are the best club in the world. My father gave me a Nerazzurri scarf when I was a child and I still treasure it.

“The fact I have so many Argentine teammates here is certainly helping. Walter Samuel, for example, is giving me a great hand to settle in. I'm happy to be working hard in order to win as much as possible. I am truly happy.”

Alvarez has been compared to Kaka among others, including for his demeanour off the field.

“I am shy, but not on the pitch, as that's where I grew up and therefore feel at ease. I am a midfielder, but can also play further up the pitch. The Coach will decide, as we haven't discussed it yet.”